Cook, eat, explore

The world of food and drink is a constantly changing experience. New things popping up everywhere, it’s a challenge to keep up and important to admit that you can never know everything! I’m always keen to learn and two new reference books on beer and wine have given me something to focus my learning on…and a whole load of new things to try!

Hugh Johnson’s Pocket Wine Book started in 1977 so it’s fair to say he’s tried some wine over the years and seen a lot of changes! There must be so much information in his head!

Wines are rated with stars which are coloured for any wine which is especially good in its price range. You are taken through wine by country, including more unusual places like Cyprus, Israel and Lebanon and at the front there’s a useful section called “If you like this, try this”, making it easy to try something new.

So I’m going through and making my wishlist. I think it’s going to be a long one!

I’m not much of a beer drinker myself, but a lot of the men in my life have been known to partake and enjoy trying something different. Stephen Beaumont & Tim Webb’s Beer Pocket Book will give them plenty of options.

It’s described as the essential guide to the best craft and traditional beers in the world and what an amazing selection! I began to feel slightly sad that I didn’t enjoy beer more. From the cornucopia of amazing breweries that produce through Europe, to North America and the Caribbean, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East, Australasia and Africa, there are more beers than you could dream of (over 3,000). There’s also a look at beer styles and food pairing.

Well, what an amazing selection of beverages I’ve got the challenge of tasting. Wish me luck. Might need a bit of help with the beers, guys!

Hugh Johnson’s Pocket Wine Book 2014 is £11.99.

Pocket Beer Book 2014 by Stephen Beaumont and Tim Webb is £12.99 or £6.99 as an ebook.

About me

I'm a freelance writer who loves travelling, eating out and cooking. My blog was born in Covent Garden and now travels the world searching for food adventures and cooking inspiration. Follow my journey.

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